3.23 Naming Colleges and Universities

Part 1. Identification with Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System All colleges and universities must clearly and prominently identify the institution as a part of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system in campus entrance signage, publications, advertising and marketing materials, website, letterhead and other forms of communication intended for external audiences. Identification shall be in accordance with system procedures.

Part 2. Name Change

Subpart A. Request for name change If a college or university requests a change to its official name, or if a new institution is created through merger or other means, the college or university president shall forward the proposed name to the chancellor for recommendation to the board. The board shall establish a name after receiving a recommendation from the chancellor.

A college or university seeking to change its name, or a new institution seeking to create a name, must clearly state the rationale for the name change or new name. The college or university must consult with key stakeholders within the campus or campuses and the surrounding communities. The rationale for the name change and the results of the market research and consultation must be presented to the chancellor at the time the request is made.

Subpart B. Name requirements The proposed name may reflect the mission of the institution and should enhance the image of the college or university and Minnesota State.

The proposed name shall not reflect the name of any individual, corporation, or other non governmental entity.

Each accredited institution may have only one name, regardless of the number of individual campuses that make up the institution.

The proposed name change should adhere to the following naming convention: Minnesota State followed by an optional reflection of mission (e.g., community or technical), followed by a descriptor (college or university), followed by an identifier name (e.g., a community, city, or established descriptor of location).

Subpart C. Name change not required This policy does not direct any institution to change its name.

Subpart D. Policy amendment Approval of a name change by the board under this policy shall constitute an amendment of Board Policy 1A.11 to reflect the approved name, with no further action of the board required.

Related Documents:

Policy History:

Date of Adoption: 10/18/94Date of Implementation: 10/18/94 Date of Last Review: 09/21/16

Date & Subject of Amendments:

9/21/16 - Amended Part 2, Subpart A to eliminate the requirement that colleges and universities conduct market research when considering a name change. Amended Subpart B to offer naming convention guidance consistent with brand standards adopted by the board on June 21, 2016. Additional wording and formatting changes throughout for consistency and clarity.

9/17/08 - adds a new Part 2, Subpart D which makes approval of a college or university name change an amendment to proposed Board policy 1A.11 with no further action of the board required.